Great work! Hey I have a question regarding jobs for federal agencies such as BLM and NRCS. There’s tons of potential acres for brush control but I’m worried they won’t contract with me since I use DJI. The American Security Drone Act prohibits the use of DJI drones on federal land and federally funded awards starting in December 2025. Also they seem pretty serious about banning DJI altogether. Any concerns, thoughts or opinions on this topic?
Honestly, I don’t think it’s feasible for them to ban one company when almost the entire drone market is comprised of drones made in China and the ones made here are sourcing parts from there. It seems unlikely that an entire industry not just agricultural would be shut down with a ban like this. We are talking about a massive impact to our economy this would bring so I just can’t fathom it happening. I understand the government contracts not being awarded but what drone manufacturers would fill this void if a ban were to be imposed more broadly? Who knows but I’m full speed ahead.
Rate is very dependent on where you are located. For us between 15 and $18 per acre is on average but it can be higher for more difficult properties. We’re not talking about running full speed on wide-open corn or wheat. We’re talking more pasture work with obstacles and complexities.